New College was recently designated as a “College of Distinction” for 2020-2021, with recognition in two key areas: Career Development and Equity & Inclusion.
Colleges of Distinction is a highly respected guide for college-bound students, which supports student-centered schools that are often overlooked by traditional rankings; it celebrated its 20th anniversary this year.
“As an institution whose primary goals are based on student success and satisfaction, New College confirms its honor as one of the renowned Colleges of Distinction,” said Ana-Marcela Lopez, the outreach associate and assistant editor of Colleges of Distinction. “New College has certainly surpassed all expectations when it comes to these pillars of an undergraduate education.”
Colleges of Distinction’s selection process involves conducting in-depth research and detailed interviews with each school about the freshman experience, retention efforts, career development, strategic plan and student satisfaction. Schools are only accepted if they adhere to the Four Distinctions: Engaged Students, Great Teaching, Vibrant Community and Successful Outcomes.
New College was chosen in the area of Career Development because it is a school that is “equipping students with the self-reflection, job market research, and networking skills needed for their lifelong career journey.” In the area of Equity & Inclusion, New College was viewed as providing “noteworthy support to underserved students who might not otherwise study and thrive on a college campus.”
“We were blown away by New College’s Novo Career Advantage Four-Year Plan and the post-graduation career course,” Lopez said. “My colleague, Nathan Wilgeroth, spearheaded the Equity & Inclusion badge, and was overjoyed to hear about the great initiatives at New College, such as the hiring of a dean of inclusion and outreach, and initiatives to make internships more equitable. These are just a few examples of why New College has earned the Colleges of Distinction recognition.”
Since 2000, Colleges of Distinction has been committed to honoring schools throughout the United States for true excellence in higher education. Its website provides dynamic college profiles, as well as customized tools and resources for students, parents and high school counselors.
Colleges of Distinction Founder Wes Creel noticed that the most pervasive ranking systems were relying on metrics like peer reputation, size of endowment and alumni salaries. But Creel knew that most critical aspects of the student experience were rather the kinds of engaging experiences that are found at places like New College.
“It’s inspiring to see New College commit to the learning styles and community involvement that will best allow their students to thrive,” Creel said.
For more information on Colleges of Distinction, visit collegesofdistinction.com
Abby Weingarten is the editor/writer in the Office of Communications & Marketing.